The Mercury report that Leicester are still in negotiations with Nice as the two clubs put the finishing touches to the deal but it is hoped the terms can be agreed before the champions return to pre-season training next Monday.

Midfield anchorman Mendy is considered to be an integral part of the current Nice side, competing in all 38 league matches in the 2015-16 season.

The 23 year-old Frenchman has drawn comparisons to Leicester heartbeat N’Golo Kanté for his energetic style and has represented his nation at Under-17s level right up to the Under-21s.

The Telegraph reported back in April that West Ham almost signed Kante as Slaven Bilic recalled: “He was on our list, we were quite close, quite close. I had watched him in France. He was a good player, the same player he is now at Leicester – a holding midfielder, not very tall but he is one of those players that after 20 minutes you think there are twins.”

West Ham appear to have been keen not to make the same mistake with Mendy as they look to win the race for the defensive midfielder but Leicester now appear to be in pole position.